Effect of Low Temperature Gaseous Carburization on Pitting Corrosion Resistance of Deformed 304L Stainless Steel

The effect of low temperature gaseous carburization (LTGC) on pitting corrosion resistance of deformed 304L stainless steel was studied by electrochemical testing. The results show that 62% (volume fraction) α'-martensite (martensite induced by deformation) was found in 304L stainless steel after pre-strain of 45%, and the pitting corrosion resistance in solution containing Br^- decreased. After LTGC treatment, the α'-martensite in the surface of 304L stainless steel disappeared and was transformed into expanded austenite by solid solution of a large number of carbon atoms in it, which improved the pitting corrosion resistance of deformed 304L stainless steel.